AFP: [Slightly warmer weather allegedly] amplifying animal disease

PARIS (AFP) — Climate change is widening viral disease among farm animals, expanding the spread of some microbes that are also a known risk to humans, the world's top agency for animal health said on Monday.

The World Animal Health Organisation -- known as OIE, an acronym of its name in French -- said a survey of 126 of its member-states found 71 percent were "extremely concerned" about the expected impact of climate change on animal disease.

Fifty-eight percent said they had already identified at least one disease that was new to their territory or had returned to their territory, and that they associated with climate change.

Slight extra warmth not seen as a big problem: Preparation and Vigilance Prevent Cold-Weather Livestock Injuries

Making sure animals receive adequate feed and water is a big step toward preventing cold-weather maladies. A key in feed management is to provide enough energy the veterinarian says.

"Give animals plenty of dry bedding to snuggle into," Stoltenow advises. That insulates vulnerable udders, genitals and legs from the frozen ground and frigid winds. Likewise, windbreaks are essential to keeping animals safe from frigid conditions.